Remember way back when we used to refer to audiobooks as “books on tape”? Nowadays we have digital streaming services and the term “audiobooks” has become the familiar term. Audiobooks offer a modern, convenient way to enjoy literature, turning the experience of reading into one of listening.
Take a contemporary approach to reading with audiobooks
An audiobook allows you to “read” a book by listening to it. Fundamentally, it’s akin to having somebody narrate the book to you. You can use this format to acquire new knowledge, become immersed in captivating stories, and explore new concepts. Beyond being an enjoyable pastime, audiobooks can also serve a more functional purpose: auditory training.
What is auditory training?
You might be wondering, “What exactly is auditory training”? Auditory training is a practice designed to help an individual perceive and better understand audio information. This training becomes particularly relevant for individuals who use hearing aids. When somebody experiences untreated hearing loss, their brain gradually becomes accustomed to a quieter environment.
When new sounds are initially introduced, they can seem overpowering as a result.
Auditory training helps the brain adapt to these new auditory inputs, enhancing sound processing capabilities. For people who have auditory processing problems or language learning difficulties, auditory training can also be really helpful. Auditory training both sharpens what you’re hearing and helps you have better comprehension.
How do audiobooks help with auditory training?
There are a number of ways that audiobooks can help with auditory training:
- Pronunciation Practice: Communication skills can frequently become rusty after a period of social separation. Listening to audiobooks helps with the pronunciation of words, which can enhance overall communication effectiveness.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding speech entails more than just hearing the words; it requires comprehension of the content. Audiobooks can help increase your ability to follow everyday conversations by forcing your brain to link words with concepts.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can expand your vocabulary by exposing you to a diverse range of words.
- Enhanced Focus: Audiobooks encourage longer periods of attention and involvement. They can help reacquaint you with sustained listening, which is especially useful if you’re adjusting to new hearing aids.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks are an excellent way for an individual to practice understanding spoken language. Unlike audiobooks, with live conversation, you don’t have the ability to rewind and replay what was said. Your ability to understand spoken words can be refined by this practice.
Optimizing audiobooks as auditory tools
Hearing specialists often suggest the pairing of an audiobook with a physical copy for maximum results. This dual strategy strengthens the link between spoken and written language, potentially speeding up the adaptation process for new auditory inputs. Audiobooks are an effective complement to hearing aids, improving the auditory training experience.
How to access audiobooks
It’s easier than ever before to gain access to audiobooks. There is a wide variety of audiobooks available on streaming services like Audible and other platforms like Amazon. Additionally, with the convenience of cell phones, you can listen to audiobooks anywhere, whether you’re at home or on the go.
Podcasts also provide a similar auditory experience if you can’t decide on a specific audiobook you want to listen to. They are also a great way to engage your mind while enhancing your hearing.
How to link audiobooks to hearing aids
Bluetooth connectivity is a fairly common feature on many types of hearing aids these days which allows them to have a wireless connection to your phone. This feature guarantees a high-quality, seamless auditory experience by allowing you to stream audiobooks straight to your hearing aids.
Your hearing specialist is the first place to start
Scheduling a consultation with your hearing specialist is the first step if you’re considering incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training program. They can offer personalized advice and help you make the most of this resource to improve your auditory skills.
Give us a call today and let us help you be more successful with your auditory training.